Is it worth replacing head gaskets if the engine overheated and has high mileage?

2002 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER
250,000 MILES • 4.0L • V6 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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MVTOWING
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Hi, my name is Edgar.

I just wanted to know if it was worth replacing head gaskets if the engine has high mileage?

Reason for fixing it was that my father-in-law left the car running inside the garage with the door closed (long story) and by the time he realized it all the coolant had leaked out and smelled burnt. Now it just rough idles with the MAP and idle control valve disconnected.
Jul 15, 2021 at 1:04 PM
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ASEMASTER6371
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Good afternoon,

The fact that it overheated that badly and had no coolant tells me there may be more damage than just the head gaskets. It could be the heads are cracked or the block could be damaged. That can only be determined by disassembling the engine.

I would suggest replacing the engine with a used motor if you want to keep the car. It is the cheapest way out.

I attached a YouTube video of the engine removal for you to view.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pwUmIDTX0gs

Roy
Jul 15, 2021 at 2:00 PM